National Information and Documentation Center (NIDOC), Academy of Scientific Research and Technology (ASRT)Egyptian Journal of Botany0375-923762220220501Artificial Intelligence for Plant Genomics and Crop Improvement29130323103910.21608/ejbo.2022.83200.1731ENYasmine HatemFaculty of Biotechnology; October University for Modern Sciences and Arts (MSA), Cairo, EgyptGehan HammadFaculty of Biotechnology; October University for Modern Sciences and Arts (MSA), Cairo, EgyptGehan SafwatFaculty of Biotechnology; October University for Modern Sciences and Arts (MSA), Cairo, EgyptJournal Article20210704BECAUSE of rapidly increasing population growth rates, food scarcity has developed into a serious global problem. Furthermore, population growth is expected to reach nine billion by 2050, likely resulting in dramatic issues with the global food supply and accessibility. Numerous technologies are being developed to boost food production in agriculture to close the food gap and overcome obstacles such as climate change, water scarcity, disease, and pests. Understanding plant genomics may facilitate the identification, cloning, and sequencing of genes involved in resistance to adverse environmental influences. Numerous techniques for crop improvement have emerged over the last few decades, including tissue culture transformation and mutagenesis. Recently, artificial intelligence and machine learning have been integrated as a potential multidisciplinary approach to enhancing and improving the agriculture sector, including food, and this field is rapidly evolving. This review explores plant genomics as a solution to future food security concerns by examining the relationship of agriculture, food production, and artificial intelligence as a promising approach for determining the genome and its variations to genetically improve crops in future agriculture.https://ejbo.journals.ekb.eg/article_231039_1995256b6841e6d830a32bc00c8fc7c8.pdfNational Information and Documentation Center (NIDOC), Academy of Scientific Research and Technology (ASRT)Egyptian Journal of Botany0375-923762220220501Enhanced Tolerance to Cowpea Mosaic Virus in Vigna unguiculata L. Plants Pretreated with Salicylic Acid30531816762510.21608/ejbo.2021.58315.1610ENGhada Saber IsmailBotany and Microbiology Department, Faculty of Science, Alexandria University, Alexandria, EgyptSoad Mohammed OmarBotany Department, Faculty of Science, Omar Al-Mukhtar University, Al Bayda, LibyaFaiza Aref FattouhBotany and Microbiology Department, Faculty of Science, Alexandria University, Alexandria, EgyptJournal Article20210116COWPEA mosaic virus (CPMV) has been identified as an economically critical pathogen infecting cowpea plants. Recently, eco-friendly strategies to enhance the tolerance level of crops against virus infection have been developed. The present investigation evaluates the effect of salicylic acid (SA) on the response of three cultivars of Vigna unguiculata plants [Libyan black eye (LB), Libyan red eye (LR), and Egyptian black eye hybrid (Kafr El Sheikh1cultivar; (EBH)] to CPMV. The leaves of 15-day old cowpea plants were foliar sprayed with 50 or 100 μM SA, 24 h before inoculation with CPMV. Most measured growth indices, total photosynthetic pigment, and photosynthetic efficiency were diminished in CPMV-inoculated plants of all three cultivars. SA utilization could enhance cowpea growth and lower virus severity, most notably in the Libyan cultivars. Furthermore, the CPMV-induced oxidative damages and phenolics accumulation were noted to decrease upon SA application to all infected cowpea cultivars. CPMV infection triggered an increase in catalase (CAT), guaiacol peroxidase (GPX), and polyphenol oxidase (PPO) activity in all cultivars, except for EBH where PPO was insignificantly changed. Interestingly, SA pretreatment was observed to significantly inhibit CAT activity in the Libyan cultivars compared to infected plants. It also induced GPX and PPO in all three tested cultivars, most obviously in the Libyan ones. In general, SA was effective in inducing of systematic resistance to CPMV in the two Libyan cowpea cultivars but not in the Egyptian one.https://ejbo.journals.ekb.eg/article_167625_d6a0d571087383ddb91ea7d89219707c.pdfNational Information and Documentation Center (NIDOC), Academy of Scientific Research and Technology (ASRT)Egyptian Journal of Botany0375-923762220220501Silicon Alleviates Cadmium Toxicity in Triticum aestivum L. Plants by Modulating Antioxidants, Nutrient Uptake, and Gene Expression31933618205810.21608/ejbo.2021.59947.1618ENNabil E. SaberBotany and Microbiology Department, Faculty of Science, Alexandria University, Alexandria, EgyptManal M. Abdel-RahmanGenetics and plant pathology Department, Faculty of Agriculture, Damanhour University, Damanhour, EgyptMona E.M. MabroukBotany and Microbiology Department, Faculty of Science, Damanhour University, Damanhour, EgyptEmanan M.M. EldebawyBotany and Microbiology Department, Faculty of Science, Damanhour University, Damanhour, EgyptGhada S.M. IsmailBotany and Microbiology Department, Faculty of Science, Alexandria University, Alexandria, EgyptJournal Article20210203SILICON (Si) is beneficial for plant growth and has the potential to alleviate the deleterious effects of heavy metals in plants grown on contaminated soils. This study aimed to evaluate the adaptive mechanisms induced by Si application (1mM sodium meta-silicate, Na2O3Si.9H2Ox) in Triticum aestivum L. plants subjected to cadmium (Cd) stress (100 and 200μM CdSO4). Under Cd stress, Si application significantly increased plant biomass, relative water content, nutrient uptake, and allocation as well as Si content while it decreased Cd accumulation compared to Cd-stressed plants. Si application also induced lignin content, mainly in roots, in the presence or absence of Cd in comparison to controls. Cd stress significantly increased the accumulation of oxalate, malate and citrate contents in the roots in comparison to control, whereas Si supplementation increased malate, and citrate in shoots. Additionally, Cd-induced oxidative stress designated by the increment of malondialdehyde, H2O2 contents and electrolyte leakage was diminished upon Si application. Concomitantly, Cd-stress markedly enhanced glutathione reductase (GR), glutathione peroxidase (GSHPx), and ascorbate peroxidase (APx) while GSH/GSSG and ASA/DHASA ratios decreased. Si application significantly induced all tested antioxidant enzymes and increased GSH/GSSG and ASA/DHASA ratios. Interestingly, low-affinity Cd transporter (LCT1), ATPase/heavy metal transporter (HMA2), and phytochelatine synthase (PCs) genes expression decreased in the shoots and roots of Si+ Cd-treated plants, while that of Si transporter (Si1) markedly increased, which may contribute to Cd uptake reduction and increased Si content. Taken together, the results highlight the role of Si in alleviating the adverse effect of Cd on wheat plants.https://ejbo.journals.ekb.eg/article_182058_f31d6fad8727d0ce68b7996a0b7a56c6.pdfNational Information and Documentation Center (NIDOC), Academy of Scientific Research and Technology (ASRT)Egyptian Journal of Botany0375-923762220220501Ethnobotanical Study of Medicinal Trees and Shrubs from the Rashad District of Southern Kordofan, Sudan33735720012210.21608/ejbo.2021.81264.1708ENKhalid A.E. EisawiCollege of Forestry, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi 712100, ChinaCollege of Forestry and Rangeland, University of East Kordofan, Rashad, Sudan0000-0003-0713-8363Haytham H. GibreelFaculty of Forestry, University of Khartoum, 13314, Shambat, SudanHe HongCollege of Forestry, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi 712100, China0000-0001-8267-3855Tayyab ShaheenCollege of Forestry, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi 712100, ChinaOmer M. AbdallaCollege of Forest Sciences, University of Zalingei, Central Darfur State, Zalingei, SudanEmad H.E. YasinFaculty of Forestry, University of Khartoum, 13314, Shambat, SudanJournal Article20210702THIS IS the first quantitative ethnobotanical study conducted in the Rashad district, Southern Kordofan, Sudan. The objective was to collect and identify trees and shrubs used by local people for medicinal purposes and summarize local knowledge about traditional herbal medicine. Ethnobotanical data were obtained by conducting several ethnobotanical surveys, questionnaires, semi-structured interviews, field observations, inquiries, and Group gatherings from September 2018 to January 2019. Quantitatively, ethnobotanical data were analyzed in terms of use value (UV) and relative frequency of citation (RFC). A total of 56 trees and shrubs used in medicine and belonging to 22 families were listed in this study. The most common families were Fabaceae (14%), Combretaceae (8%), and Malvaceae (5%). In terms of growth form, 35 species (61%) were trees and 21 (39%) were shrubs. Fruits were the most common structures used to prepare herbal medicine (23%) and were usually administered as a powder (13%). The most commonly used species based on UV by the local community in the Rashad area were as follows: Adansonia digitata L. for dysentery diseases, followed by Tamarindus indica L. for treating malaria and fever, Balanites aegyptiacus (L.) Delile for treating enteric worms, Vangueria madagascariensis J. F. Gmel and Guiera senegalensis J. F. Gmel for kidney problems, and Ximenia americana L. for toothaches. This study revealed significant local ethnobotanical knowledge and direct human-plant interactions. Recording indigenous use of woody plants is crucial for identifying potential species for future domestication.https://ejbo.journals.ekb.eg/article_200122_10187dc0c29dd4fbd4d3efa1991c1da8.pdfNational Information and Documentation Center (NIDOC), Academy of Scientific Research and Technology (ASRT)Egyptian Journal of Botany0375-923762220220501IRAP-PCR Technique for Determining the Biodiversity between Egyptian Barley Cultivars35937021179910.21608/ejbo.2021.93071.1768ENEhab M. ZayedGenetic Resources Research Department Field Crops Research Institute,
Agricultural Research Center, Giza-12619, Egypt Cell Study Research Department,
Field Crops Research Institute, Agricultural Research Center, Giza-12619, EgyptMarwa M. GhonaimCell Study Research Department,
Field Crops Research Institute, Agricultural Research Center, Giza-12619, EgyptAhmed M. AttyaBarley Research Department, Field Crops Research Institute, Agricultural Research
Center, Giza-12619, EgyptNahid A. MorsiCell Study Research Department,
Field Crops Research Institute, Agricultural Research Center, Giza-12619, EgyptKhalid A. HusseinBotany & Microbiology Department, Faculty of Science, Assiut University, 71516, Assiut, EgyptJournal Article20210828THE GENETIC diversity of some Egyptian barley cultivars was assessed using twelve primers from the inter-retrotransposons amplified polymorphism (IRAP) marker system. In addition, moisture content, crude, lipids, ash, and crude fiber contents were measured in the studied cultivars. The obtained results showed that the average protein content was 11.19%, and the highest one was recorded for Giza135 cultivar with an average value of 12.3% to a lesser extent in Giza 129 (8.7%). Sixty-three IRAP bands, scores of 33.3% and 66.7% of monomorphic and polymorphic bands were recorded, respectively. The polymorphism heterozygosity index values IRAP marker traits were ranged as H (0.04-–0.47), PIC (0.04–0.36), E (7.50–11.75) HAV (0.00–0.01), MI (0.04–0.07), D (0.04–0.61), and R (0.5.–6.86). The proportion of appearing polymorphism was 63%. This multiplicity was used to measure the difference between the studied cultivars; however, there were no unique bands in all cultivars for each IRAP primer. There was a similarity between the PCA, heat map, and dendrogram distributions of Giza123, Giza124, Giza125, and Giza126. The Bioplot analysis divided the cultivars into four groups. The data revealed a significant difference, among the surveyed varieties of barley cultivars in Egypt, at the molecular level.https://ejbo.journals.ekb.eg/article_211799_2adc3843c8260c5d93dc5387bff09ca6.pdfNational Information and Documentation Center (NIDOC), Academy of Scientific Research and Technology (ASRT)Egyptian Journal of Botany0375-923762220220501Applications of Candida tropicalis Bioactive Biosurfactant Produced Using Simple Substrate Medium37138721469710.21608/ejbo.2022.77456.1693ENMaram M.S. El-ShahedDepartment of Microbiology, National Organization for Drug Control and Research, Giza, Egypt0000-0003-2633-2444Sara H. MohamedDepartment of Microbiology, National Organization for Drug Control and Research, Giza, Egypt0000-0003-1379-6493Mahmoud W. SadikDepartment of Microbiology, Faculty of Agriculture, Cairo University, Giza, Egypt Department of Environmental Biotechnology, College of Biotechnology, Misr University of Science and Technology, Cairo, EgyptMona I. MabroukDepartment of Microbiology, National Organization for Drug Control and Research, Giza, EgyptMohammed Z. SedikDepartment of Microbiology, Faculty of Agriculture, Cairo University, Giza, Egypt Department of Environmental Biotechnology, College of Biotechnology, Misr University of Science and Technology, Cairo, EgyptJournal Article20210524BIOSURFACTANTS have been generating increasing interest due to their wide range of applications. This work aimed to propose a low-cost method for producing a biosurfactant using Candida tropicalis and studying its optimal conditions and applications.<br />A biosurfactant-producing Candida strain was selected and subjected to molecular identification. Optimum medium composition was determined using Plackett–Burman design; and response surface methodology using the central composite design. The Placket–Burman design showed that the maximum dry weight of biosurfactant (69.06mg/10mL) was obtained at the under optimal conditions of culture medium supplemented with 30g L−1 of carbon source and 1.5g L−1 of nitrogen source and incubation at 42°C for 15 days. The extracted biosurfactant was characterized using FTIR. The dye decolorization/degradation ability was tested and antibacterial/antibiofilm assays were performed using the tissue culture plate method.<br />Crude biosurfactant of Candida tropicalis showed good antibacterial activity, with inhibition zones ranging from 1 to 2.8cm in diameter against standard bacterial strains. Using FTIR, the biosurfactant was confirmed to be sophorolipid. High degradation rates of 50.76% and 20.88% were recorded for methylene blue and Congo red dyes, respectively, using the partially purified biosurfactant, which was further, confirmed using FTIR analysis and HPLC. The partially purified biosurfactant showed significant anti-biofilm activity against pathogenic MDR Klebsiella pneumoniae biofilm at concentrations of 100 and 50mg mL −1.<br />Conclusion: Candida tropicalis biosurfactant is potent at degrading different synthetic dyes in water, as well as exerting remarkable antibacterial and anti-biofilm activity against MDR pathogenic bacteria. Our results, suggest the value of using mixed substrates as low-cost substrates to increase the production of biosurfactant by Candida tropicalis.https://ejbo.journals.ekb.eg/article_214697_c7a7b63baa66350f1dc64d1c12753eb1.pdfNational Information and Documentation Center (NIDOC), Academy of Scientific Research and Technology (ASRT)Egyptian Journal of Botany0375-923762220220501Ethno-Botanical Study of Medicinal Plants Used by Tribes in the Dindori District of Madhya Pradesh, India38939821470510.21608/ejbo.2022.95570.1785ENDivya SinghDepartment of Biological Sciences, Rani Durgavati University, JabalpurDivya BagchiDepartment of Biological Sciences, Rani Durgavati University, JabalpurRenu PathakDepartment of Biological Sciences, Rani Durgavati University, JabalpurPurnima BeoharDepartment of Biological Sciences, Rani Durgavati University, JabalpurPrashant ChaturvediDepartment of Biological Sciences, Rani Durgavati University, JabalpurLoukesh AhirwarDepartment of Biological Sciences, Rani Durgavati University, JabalpurJournal Article20210915SINCE early civilization, tribes of Central India have been using plant extracts as traditional medicine. The objective of our study was to catalogue the ethno-medicinal plants whose diverse morphological parts are used by the tribal communities belonging to Shahpura, Dindori and Mehadwani blocks of Dindori district, Madhya Pradesh, India. Questionnaires were provided and Semi -structured interviews were conducted with the local tribal community. In our study, 41 plant species belonging to 36 genera and 25 families have been reported for various medicinal and therapeutic uses. These plant species were used to treat conditions such as respiratory, digestive and skin ailments. Leaves were found to be the most used part of the plant, and decoctions were the most common preparations used for treatment. Upon processing the data, various indices were as follows: Use Value was ranging from 0.01 to 0.13; ; Relative Importance Index ranged from 93.75 to 16.25 and Informant Consensus Factor range was 0.33 to 0.96. These indices are important to understand the efficacy of diverse medicinal plants used by tribes in the Dindori district, and may contribute to the development of new plant-based drugs.https://ejbo.journals.ekb.eg/article_214705_c8ea4646a222948934783cc70a1286b1.pdfNational Information and Documentation Center (NIDOC), Academy of Scientific Research and Technology (ASRT)Egyptian Journal of Botany0375-923762220220501Impact of Certain Local Isolated Fungi as Biocontrol Agents against Tomato Wilt Disease39941421977110.21608/ejbo.2022.53342.1593ENMahmoud W. SadikMicrobiology Department, Faculty of Agriculture, Cairo University, Giza 12613, Egypt Department of Environmental Biotechnology, College of Biotechnology, Misr University for Science and Technology, 6th of October City, Giza, Egypt.0000-0001-7825-9790Zienab H. WahabaCentral Pesticide Laboratory, Agricultural Research Center, Giza 12613, EgyptYasser A. AttiaNational Institute of Laser Enhanced Sciences, Cairo University, Giza 12613, Egypt0000-0002-5830-2250Olfat S. BarakatMicrobiology Department, Faculty of Agriculture, Cairo University, Giza 12613, EgyptJournal Article20201216SEVERAL fungal diseases affect tomato plants and cause severe economic loss worldwide. Locally isolated fungi were examined for biological control of tomato disease. Pathogenic fungi were isolated from infected tomato plants and identified as Fusarium oxysporum, F. oxysporum, F. solani, F. semitectum, F. equsiseti, Alternaria solani, and A. alternata. Further, non-pathogens, such as Chaetomium globosum, Trichoderma harzianum, Aspergillus tires, and Trichoderma asperelium, were isolated in the rhizosphere from the roots of healthy plants. Both pathogenic and nonpathogenic fungal strains were isolated from two cultivars in Alexandria and Giza Governorates in Egypt. Genetic similarity was assessed using GenBank and PCR (Polymerase Chain Reaction) with ITS1 and ITS4 primers. Efficacy of T. harzianum and C. globosum as biological control agents were evaluated under laboratory conditions for each fungal pathogen. T. harzianum was superior to C. globosum. Changes in protein profiles were noted among treatments. A greenhouse experiment compared the efficacy of the biocide, Bio-Ark, as a model of a bacterial bio-pesticide, and T. harzianum. Both biological agents were assessed against the chemical pesticide, Uniform 390 SE. The T. horizon isolate was most effective based on plant shoot dry weight.https://ejbo.journals.ekb.eg/article_219771_d6b51e1bebcc708d810e696e5b393d20.pdfNational Information and Documentation Center (NIDOC), Academy of Scientific Research and Technology (ASRT)Egyptian Journal of Botany0375-923762220220501Gas Exchange and Chlorophyll Fluorescence’s Characteristics of Hyoscyamus muticus L. at Different Phenological Stages under Extreme Arid Environmental Conditions, South-Western Desert, Egypt41543022146710.21608/ejbo.2022.87177.1746ENUsama A.A. RadwanDepartment of Botany, Faculty of Science, Aswan University, 81528, Aswan, Egypt0000-0003-1323-0238Mohammad M. SalehDepartment of physics, Faculty of Science, Aswan University, Sahari, 81528, Aswan, Egypt0000-0002-6247-9198Journal Article20210723HYOSCYAMUS muticus L. is an adaptable plant of hyper arid environment. Changes in photosynthesis rate, transpiration, stomatal conductance, instantaneous water use efficiency, chlorophyll fluorescence and photosynthetic pigments characteristics were analyzed in the course of phenological stages including seedling, vegetative, flowering and fruiting to reveal the adaptive mechanisms of this species to withstand high irradiance during its life cycle. All measurements were taken under wide range of photosynthetically active radiation (PAR). H. muticus showed significant differences of physiological processes at different phenological stages, the highest rates of photosynthesis (5 and 5.23μmolm-2s-1) was recorded at vegetative stage and the highest transpiration rate was recorded at relatively high PAR at seedling stage. Otherwise, lowest transpiration rates (0.18mmolm-2s-1, 0.19mmolm-2s-1 and 0.197mmolm-2s-1 were noticed at vegetative, flowering and fruiting stages, respectively) at highest PAR (2500μmolm-2s-1). Stomatal conductance limitations in seedling, flowering and fruiting stages of H. muticus exhibited reductions of photosynthesis rate (Pn), transpiration rate (E) and instantaneous water use efficiency (WUE) in response to PAR increments. The plant fluoresces behaviour recorded significant increments and decrements in minimal fluorescence from dark-adapted leaf (F0) and maximal fluorescence from dark-adapted leaf (Fm) respectively, and significant declines in the ratio of PSII photochemistry maximum quantum efficiency to quantum yield (Fv/Fm) (0.75200, 0.75167, 0.68833 and 0.4800) along with progressing phenological stages. In parallel with the later ratio decline, there was a significant decrement in chlorophyll a, chlorophyll b, chlorophyll (a+b) and carotene H. muticus has adapted different adaptive mechanisms to thrive the combination of water scarcity and high irradiance along its life cycle in hyper arid environment.https://ejbo.journals.ekb.eg/article_221467_8fdf890fc11e9968cb4b9e81099ea672.pdfNational Information and Documentation Center (NIDOC), Academy of Scientific Research and Technology (ASRT)Egyptian Journal of Botany0375-923762220220501Co-varying Environmental Conditions Control the Spatiotemporal Dynamics of Microcystis aeruginosa and Botryococcus braunii in a Freshwater Ecosystem43144122146810.21608/ejbo.2022.93159.1769ENShimaa HosnyNational Institute of Oceanography and Fisheries (NIOF), Alexandria, Egypt0000-0003-3661-3311Wagdy LabibNational Institute of Oceanography and Fisheries (NIOF), Alexandria, EgyptJournal Article20210829NOZHA lake (South of Alexandria City, Egypt), an artificial freshwater basin, receives its water supply from the Nile River and from the surrounded urban area, which affect the ecological balance. Results during a year cycle (December 2017 to November 2018) revealed scums and dispersive blooms of Microcystis aeruginosa Kützing (Cyanophyta) and Botryococcus braunii Kützing (Chlorophyta), in no particular season, under a wide range of environmental conditions. Microcystis aeruginosa was a persistent form during the whole period, culminating in visible blooms in December, June, and September. The distinctive role of temperature was evidenced during the transient periods in spring and summer. The inorganic dissolved nitrate, ammonia, and phosphate might affect the variability in the community structure and abundance. Stoichiometric analyses indicated major potential nitrogen limitation (63.89% of the total observations), whereas 15.28% of the total observations were P limiting, and 20.83% of the total observations were either N or P limiting. Hence, the reduction of only one type of nutrients can lead to an imbalance in the ratio. The major bloom peaks of M. aeruginosa and B. braunii detected in June and September raised chlorophyll a content to its extreme values (16.5 and 21.8mg L−1, respectively). The blooms of B. braunii influenced the accompanied phytoplankton species diversity with different degrees to explain the interaction with eutrophic fast-growing Chlorella vulgaris green algae.https://ejbo.journals.ekb.eg/article_221468_e59b0f195ff2f0b7d206a950735ce50b.pdfNational Information and Documentation Center (NIDOC), Academy of Scientific Research and Technology (ASRT)Egyptian Journal of Botany0375-923762220220501In vitro Anticancer Potentialities of Three Egyptian Cyanobacterial Isolates against Breast Adenocarcinoma and Hepatocellular Carcinoma Cell Lines44345522146910.21608/ejbo.2022.95865.1786ENJelan MofeedFaculty of Science, King Salman International University, Ras-Sedr. South Sinai, Egypt Faculty of Fish Resources, Suez University, Suez, EgyptMohamed DeyabDepartment of Botany and Microbiology, Faculty of Science, Damietta University, New Damietta, EgyptMohamed A. DeyabEmad El-BilawyFaculty of Science, King Salman International University, Ras-Sedr. South Sinai, EgyptJournal Article20210913CYANOBACTERIA represent a promising but not totally explored source of a wide array of secondary metabolites. They also represent a source for the discovery of compounds and drugs. In the present study, three cyanobacterial species, namely, Arthrospira platensis MH285264, Leptolyngbya boryana MH155317, and Leptolyngbya sp. MH285263 were tested for their anticancer capabilities against hepatocellular carcinoma (Hep-G2) and breast adenocarcinoma (MCF-7) cell lines. In order to obtain the highest biomasses of the tested organisms, they were optimized using 8 media recipes. The optimized organisms were tested for their biochemical constituents. The GC-MS of the tested cyanobacterial extracts revealed the presence of a number of bioactive metabolites which were previously known for their anticancer activity. The extracts of A. platensis and L. sp. showed a cytotoxic effect against the Hep-G2 cell line with IC50 values of 14 and 15μg.mL−1, respectively. The extracts of A. platensis and L. sp. showed more cytotoxic effects against the MCF-7 cell line with IC50 values of 12.1 and 13.2μg.mL−1, respectively. On the basis of the undiluted concentration used in this study (100μg.mL<sup>−1</sup>), the maximum inhibitory percentages compared with the control against the Hep-G2 and MCF-7 cell lines were 73.2% and 91.2%, respectively, by extracts of L. sp. and A. platensis. L. boryana exhibited a low and neglectable anticancer activity against both cell lines. The obtained promising results herald the existence of natural and safe alternatives with a high efficiency extracted from A. platensis and L. sp. for inclusion in the strategies of cancer treatment.https://ejbo.journals.ekb.eg/article_221469_57960640b3b423537706983cfa5b43ef.pdfNational Information and Documentation Center (NIDOC), Academy of Scientific Research and Technology (ASRT)Egyptian Journal of Botany0375-923762220220501Biocontrol of Aspergillus flavus Producing Aflatoxin B1 by Streptomyces exfoliatus45747322343010.21608/ejbo.2022.7763.1287ENAbd El-Raheem R. El-ShanshouryMicrobiology Section, Botany and Microbiology Department, Faculty of Science, Tanta University, Tanta 31527, Egypt0000-0001-6642-7574Metwally A. MetwallyMicrobiology Section, Botany and Microbiology Department, Faculty of Science, Tanta University, Tanta 31527, EgyptSabha M. El-SabbaghBotany Department, Faculty of Science, Menoufyia University, Shebin El-Koom, EgyptHeba Allah E. SabaMicrobiology Section, Botany and Microbiology Department, Faculty of Science, Tanta University, Tanta 31527, EgyptJournal Article20190202IN tropical and subtropical regions, contamination of crops by aflatoxin B1 (AFB1) is a growing challenge. To restrict fungal growth and allow aflatoxin detoxification, there is a need to control mycotoxin contamination. Streptomyces exfoliatus has shown promise against several phytopathogenic fungi. This study aimed to explore whether S. exfoliatus could be employed as a biocontrol agent against Aspergillus flavus and AFB1 contamination. In this study, the biological control of AFB1 production by A. flavus was examined using some actinobacteria isolates. The cytotoxic activity of AFB1 and its degradation products were also evaluated. Results revealed that the most effective actinobacterium against A. flavus was isolate number 1, which was identified as S. exfoliatus. The growth, sporulation, and AFB1 production of A. flavus decreased when it was treated with a cell-free culture filtrate produced by the identified isolate. Furthermore, 20% of the cell-free culture filtrate of S. exfoliatus completely inhibited AFB1 production. The AFB1 content was also reduced in wheat samples treated with day intervals. After 21 days, no AFB1 was detected compared with those of the controls. After 3 days, 95.47% of AFB1 was degraded by the cell-free culture filtrate. The degraded AFB1 products were less toxic than the parent aflatoxin. The optimum temperature of AFB1 degradation was 30°C, but AFB1 degradation decreased as the temperature further increased. The cell-free culture filtrate remained stable for 12 months at the time of freezing. In conclusion, S. exfoliatus cell-free culture filtrates can inhibit the growth and sporulation of A. flavus as well as reduce AFB1 generation and degrade it into less harmful compounds. This appears a promising option for minimizing contamination by A. flavus, preventing aflatoxin accumulation, and enabling aflatoxin breakdown in wheat grains; this approach may be used to reduce A. flavus and AFB1 contamination in future biological control programs.https://ejbo.journals.ekb.eg/article_223430_20fc512343ba9d2af7fa63ef081b52f1.pdfNational Information and Documentation Center (NIDOC), Academy of Scientific Research and Technology (ASRT)Egyptian Journal of Botany0375-923762220220501Characterization of the Genetic Diversity of Some Species of Genus Vicia Using ISSR and ITS Molecular Techniques47549222346810.21608/ejbo.2022.84745.1732ENGhada E. El-BadanBotany and Microbiology Department, Faculty of Science, Alexandria University, Alexandria, Egypt0000-0003-1164-9158Amal W. AminBotany and Microbiology Department, Faculty of Science, Alexandria University, Alexandria, EgyptFatma M. AshourBotany and Microbiology Department, Faculty of Science, Alexandria University, Alexandria, EgyptLaila M. El SadekBotany and Microbiology Department, Faculty of Science, Alexandria University, Alexandria, EgyptJournal Article20210806THE HIGH economic importance of the genus Vicia has led to a large body of studies on the molecular characterization and investigation of phylogenetic relationships among species that belonged to this genus. The Mediterranean area is the principal center of distribution and diversification where polymorphism has been associated with the geographical origin of germplasm (ICARDA, 2013). The extent of genetic diversity in germplasm can be assessed through morphological characterization and genetic markers. The molecular techniques have a more accurate evaluation of the genetic and environmental components of variation, bringing greater precision to measures of genetic diversity.<br />The present study is a molecular analysis of Vicia germplasm through ISSR and ITS techniques. The objectives were to determine the genetic diversity and phylogenetic relationship among defined 19 accessions, collected by ICARDA from different countries and habitats, representing nine Vicia species and subspecies: V. ervilia; V. monantha; V. villosa subsp. villosa, V. villosa subsp. dasycarpa and V. villosa subsp. eriocarpa; V. sativa subsp. nigra, subsp. amphicarpa, subsp. macrocacrpa and subsp. sativa. The patterns of variation of those accessions were studied by the numerical analysis of data to generate pertinent genetic information for the complement of passport data of ICARDA germplasm collections.https://ejbo.journals.ekb.eg/article_223468_2e3ad707053e7ee3281bd2d75b19e0d6.pdfNational Information and Documentation Center (NIDOC), Academy of Scientific Research and Technology (ASRT)Egyptian Journal of Botany0375-923762220220501Influence of Irrigation Water on the Diversity and Distribution of the Endophytic Bacterial Microbiome Associated with Mentha longifolia; Metagenomics Profiling49350522542310.21608/ejbo.2022.102867.1821ENRasha M. AlreedyAgriculture Genetic Engineering Research Institute, Agricultural Research Center (ARC), Giza, Egypt.Journal Article20211027MENTHA longifolia is one of the most vital medicinal and economic plants in Saudi Arabia. This study aimed to describe the bacterial endophytic diversity associated with the leaves and root of M. longifolia from two different locations in Al-Madinah region, Saudi Arabia, using metagenomics approach, then, correlate their deviation with the environmental stress conditions. Chemical analysis of the essential oils from M. longifolia leaves revealed the predominance of carvenone in the first location (Abyar-Ali) and pulegone in second one (Abyar-Almashi). When the irrigation water in the two locations was chemically analyzed, the results showed high content of total dissolved solids in Abyar-Ali area compared to Abyar-Almashi. On the other hand, Abyar-Almashi irrigation water had higher levels of the total organic nitrogen. Illumina MiSeq analysis of the endophytic microbiome using V3-V4 amplicons of the rRNA gene detected 114 distinct OTUs. These 114 OTUs were grouped under eight different bacterial phyla most of which belonged to Proteobacteria followed by Cyanobacteria. Within the eight phyla, all taxa were clustered into 14 class, 25 order, 41 family and 57 genera. Among the detected endophytic microbial taxa, nitrogen fixing bacteria that play a crucial role in pulegone biosynthesis, Pseudomonas, as well as Enterobacter, both excellent degrader of organic compounds were found with high abundance in Abyar-Almashi. While genus Bacillus long with other genera, either dominated or were unique to Abyar-Ali in response to the high salt stress in that location. Collectively, the previous results designate that, the dynamics in the number, type and distribution of the bacterial endophytic population between the two areas varies in response to the type of stress to which the plant is exposed.https://ejbo.journals.ekb.eg/article_225423_350d1d8bae70cf9b1cee91725f06d653.pdfNational Information and Documentation Center (NIDOC), Academy of Scientific Research and Technology (ASRT)Egyptian Journal of Botany0375-923762220220501Biosynthesis, Characterization, and Assessment of Zirconia Nanoparticles by Fusarium oxysporum species as Potential Novel Antimicrobial and Cytotoxic Agents50752222800710.21608/ejbo.2022.114070.1869ENAshraf ElsayedDepartment of Botany, Faculty of Science, Mansoura University, Mansoura, PO. 35516, EgyptGhada M. El-ShamyDepartment of Botany and Microbiology, Faculty of Science, Benha University, Benha, Egypt.Attia A. AttiaDepartment of Botany and Microbiology, Faculty of Science, Benha University, Benha, Egypt.Journal Article20220101ZIRCONIA nanoparticles (ZrNPs) were efficiently biosynthesized by Fusarium oxysporum. The formation of ZrNPs was characterized by UV-visible spectral analysis, transmission electron microscopy, selected area diffraction pattern analysis, scanning electron microscopy, energy-dispersive X-ray analysis, and FT-IR spectroscopy. The results identified the generation of ZrNPs by the transformation of zirconia cations in the solution into zirconium dioxide in the nanosized particles with narrow size distribution. ZrNPs had moderate cytotoxic effects on HePG-2 (IC50= 32.38μg/mL), MCF-7 (IC50= 47.19μg/mL), PC3 (IC50= 43.50μg/mL), HeP2 (IC50= 38.23μg/mL), and HeLa (IC50= 33.62μg/mL) cell lines, complemented by weak cytotoxicity in HCT-116 (IC50= 58.13μg/mL) and normal WI-38 cell lines (IC50= 58.51μg/mL). Finally, the antimicrobial activity of ZrNPs was evaluated, in which the results indicated a minimum inhibitory concentration value at 50 μg/mL in the tests against K. pneumoniae, E. coli, and C. albicans, whereas the MIC value was recorded at 25μg/mL against S. aureus.https://ejbo.journals.ekb.eg/article_228007_179efbd0cae4e5e0f0fa4eb3adef8ee4.pdfNational Information and Documentation Center (NIDOC), Academy of Scientific Research and Technology (ASRT)Egyptian Journal of Botany0375-923762220220501Optimizing the Antioxidant Activity of Solid State Fermentation Systems with Pleurotus floridanus and Paecilomyces variotii on Rice Straw52353523030110.21608/ejbo.2022.110719.1856ENAmira A. El-FallalDepartment of Botany and Microbiology, Faculty of Science, Damietta University, New Damietta 34517, EgyptTaha M. El-KatonyDepartment of Botany and Microbiology, Faculty of Science, Damietta University, New Damietta 34517, EgyptMahmoud M. Nour El-DeinDepartment of Botany and Microbiology, Faculty of Science, Damietta University, New Damietta 34517, EgyptNourhan G. IbrahimDepartment of Botany and Microbiology, Faculty of Science, Damietta University, New Damietta 34517, EgyptHoda M. El-GharabawyDepartment of Botany and Microbiology, Faculty of Science, Damietta University, New Damietta 34517, Egypt0000-0003-0946-9916Journal Article20211211SOLID state fermentation system (SSFS) efficiency depends on the proper selection of the microorganisms, substrates and environmental conditions. In this study, we investigated and optimized the antioxidant activity of the SSFS constructed using Pleurotus floridanus or Paecilomyces variotii on rice straw. The genotypic effect on antioxidant activity surpassed that of the environmental conditions. Peroxidase (POX) activity was expressed only in Pleurotus floridanus, but catalase (CAT) activity was expressed in both fungi, in favor of Paecilomyces variotii. The activities of both enzymes were maximized at low pH, low temperature and with ammonium chloride as the N source, but high moisture was optimal for POX and low moisture was optimal for CAT. Phenolic and flavonoid contents were higher in Paecilomyces variotii than Pleurotus floridanus, with preference for high moisture, low pH and urea in Paecilomyces variotii, and low moisture, low pH, and sodium nitrate in Pleurotus floridanus. The reducing power of Paecilomyces variotii was higher than that of Pleurotus floridanus, with positive moisture-dependence, low temperature, and gelatin preferences in Paecilomyces variotii, and negative moisture- and temperature-dependence and urea-preferences in Pleurotus floridanus. The 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) scavenging activity was higher in Paecilomyces variotii than Pleurotus floridanus, with negative dependence on moisture and temperature and limited nitrogen source effects in both fungi. Regarding the incubation period, maximal antioxidant activity was observed with a shorter incubation in the Paecilomyces variotii SSFS and a longer incubation in the Pleurotus floridanus SSFS.https://ejbo.journals.ekb.eg/article_230301_d5369c14a0baca23abbb137e86b3be64.pdfNational Information and Documentation Center (NIDOC), Academy of Scientific Research and Technology (ASRT)Egyptian Journal of Botany0375-923762220220501The Effect of Exogenous Proline and Glycine Betaine on Phyto-biochemical Responses of Salt-stressed Basil Plants53754723105010.21608/ejbo.2022.75826.1689ENGehan SafwatFaculty of Biotechnology, October University for Modern Sciences and Arts (MSA), Cairo,
EgyptHemat S. Abdel SalamMedicinal and Aromatic Plants Research Department, Horticulture Research Institute, Agricultural Research Centre, Cairo, EgyptJournal Article20210512SALINITY is one of the most problematic issues for agriculture in terms of abiotic stresses, particularly in semi-arid regions. Important osmolytes which accumulate in the cell include proline and glycine betaine. In the present investigation, the effect of the aforementioned osmolytes were assessed on sweet basil (Ocimum basilicum L.), the roles of exogenous applications were estimated at 50 100 or 200mM) and salinity stress (50 ,75 or 100mM NaCl). Results showed that all concentrations significantly increased growth parameters including number of branches/plants, height, fresh weight, leaves, and chlorophyll content, all of which decreased with increased NaCl. 100- and 200-mM glycine betaine had the most beneficial effect in both seasons. Similarly, severe salt conditions had a significant increase in endogenous proline content of basil leaves. Foliar application of 100- and 200-mM glycine betaine had the most beneficial effect in both seasons. When SDS-PAGE analysis was conducted it showed 19 bands with molecular weights (MW) ranging from 14.47 to 175.43kDa. Moderate and high salinity stress treatments of irrigation water (75 and 100mM) blocked the synthesis of a 175.429kDa polypeptide that was not restored by all foliar application of proline and glycine betaine. Highest NaCl level (100mM) alone induced the synthesis of new polypeptide (63.41kDa molecular weight). Exogenous proline and glycine betaine improved physiological parameters and reduced oxidative damage. Results suggest increased tolerance to oxidative damage caused by salinity, and these protectants rendered better performance, by upregulating their antioxidant defence system.https://ejbo.journals.ekb.eg/article_231050_9ded5109c4015d82cd64f4f86e5147c1.pdfNational Information and Documentation Center (NIDOC), Academy of Scientific Research and Technology (ASRT)Egyptian Journal of Botany0375-923762220220501Fertilization Affects Growth Aspects, Chemical Composition and Productivity of Wheat Crop54955923376410.21608/ejbo.2022.104109.1827ENAbeer F. AbdullahFood Technology Research Institute, Agricultural Research Center, Giza, EgyptAdel S. El-HassaninDepartment of Soil Science, Institute of African Research and Studies, Cairo University, Giza, EgyptNahla M.M. HassanFood Technology Research Institute, Agricultural Research Center, Giza, EgyptMagdy R. SamakDepartment of Soil Science, Institute of African Research and Studies, Cairo University, Giza, EgyptGamal GabrDepartment of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, Prince Sattam bin Abdulaziz University, Al-Kharj, 11942, Saudi Arabia Agricultural Genetic Engineering Research Institute, Agriculture Research Center, Giza, 12619, Egypt0000-0002-5028-9952Journal Article20211102THE CURRENT Study was carried out to evaluate the effect of different mineral nitrogen levels alone or combined with bio-fertilizers (Rhizobium radiobacter sp strain inoculation and Yeast) on the physical and chemical properties of soil and wheat productivity. Field experiments were carried out in sandy soil of farm at 6 October Agriculture Company, El-Qasasin, Ismailia Governorate, Egypt. Wheat grains at a rate of 60kg fed-1 were divided into to three divisions. In first division, mineral nitrogen fertilizer rates (25, 50, 75 and 100kg N fed-1) were added. In second division, grains were inoculated with Rhizobium radiobacte sp strain (PGPR) mixed with 400mL of adhesive liquid (Arabic gum). In third division, 33% N ammonium nitrate at rates (25, 50, 75 and 100kg N fed-1) were applied three times 21, 40 and 60 days after implanting and potassium sulphate (48% K2O) at a rate of 75kg fed-1 was applied on two doses after 21 and 45 days from planting. The results showed that soil pH was around 7.90 to 8.01. Soil salinity was 1.61 and 1.24 for soil treated with mineral nitrogen and a mixture of (yeast + bacteria) with a relative increasing of mean values nitrogen were 2.70, 3.63 and 5.22%. The available soil Fe, Mn, and Zn were 2.65 to 3.12mg/kg for Fe; 1.35 to 1.63mg/kg for Mn, and 0.60 to 0.85mg/kg for Zn. In conclusion, this study confirms the use of bio-fertilizers to get high-quality yields of wheat and avoid environmental pollutions.https://ejbo.journals.ekb.eg/article_233764_f7cfd61680e111da3c02279fef9f9dbb.pdfNational Information and Documentation Center (NIDOC), Academy of Scientific Research and Technology (ASRT)Egyptian Journal of Botany0375-923762220220501Ethno-phytotechnology of Tribulus terrestris L. (Zygophyllaceae)56157323377710.21608/ejbo.2022.114629.1874ENShimaa A. RashedBotany and Microbiology Department, Faculty of Science, Alexandria University, Alexandria, EgyptSalama M. EldarierBotany and Microbiology Department, Faculty of Science, Alexandria University, Alexandria, Egypt0000-0003-4702-1936Asmaa A. El-SheikhBotany and Microbiology Department, Faculty of Science, Alexandria University, Alexandria, EgyptSoliman M. TotoBotany and Microbiology Department, Faculty of Science, Alexandria University, Alexandria, Egypt0000-0003-2098-2374Journal Article20220104ETHNO-PHYTOTECHNOLOGY combines ethnobotany and biotechnology. This study evaluated the ethnobotanical role, anticancer potential, and allelopathy of Tribulus terrestris L. The ethnobotanical survey of twenty informants used an open-ended questionnaire. T. terrestris contains steroids, saponins, antioxidants, flavonoids, alkaloids, phenolics, proteins, and amino acids. The study investigated cytotoxic effects using six carcinoma cell lines. Hordeum vulgare and Lepidium sativum were used as recipient species in the allelopathy experiments. We found that 95% of the informants stated that T. terrestris is an aggressive species that injures livestock, reduces biodiversity, leads to soil dryness, consumes large amounts of space during the vegetative season, and affects soil pH and the absorption of minerals. Ethanolic extracts produced a significant effect on the prostate (PC3), breast (MCF 7), lung (A549), and liver (HEP-G2) carcinoma cell lines, with IC50 values of 19, 22, 33, and 33μg/mL, respectively. The intestinal carcinoma cell line (CAco2) had an IC50 60μg/mL. The colon (HCT) carcinoma cell line had an IC50 value of 68 μg/mL. Water extracts inhibited the seed germination, plumule length, radicle growth, and fresh and dry matter production of the recipient species. This study demonstrated that T. terrestris is potentially valuable as an anticancer agent and an herbicide against harmful weeds.https://ejbo.journals.ekb.eg/article_233777_e8f39578e50ec2be2d9b02a88ca9c03b.pdfNational Information and Documentation Center (NIDOC), Academy of Scientific Research and Technology (ASRT)Egyptian Journal of Botany0375-923762220220501Using Remote-sensing Technique to Assess the Role of Common Reed [Phragmites australis (CAV.) Trin. Ex. Steud] in Restoring Eutrophication in Idku Wetland in Egypt57559323394710.21608/ejbo.2022.121538.1909ENEsraa M. ElpahnasyBotany Department, Faculty of women for Arts, Science and Educatiob, Ain Shams University, Cairo, EgyptTarek M. GalalBotany and Microbiology Department, Faculty of Science, Helwan University, Cairo 11790, Egypt Biology Department, College of Sciences, Taif University, P.O. Box 11099, Taif 21944, Saudi Arabia0000-0001-9847-1051Sameh B. ElKafrawyWetland Department, National Authority for Remote Sensing and Space Science (NARSS), Egypt0000-0003-2756-1126Ahmed KhalafallahBotany department, Faculty of Women for Arts, Science and Education, Ain Sams Univesity0000-0002-5123-1779Journal Article20220212IDKU wetland is one of Egypt’s Northern Delta Lakes, which is threatened by nutrients that are discharged from the neighborhood. Aquatic macrophytes may sequester large amounts of these nutrients. Therefore, this study aims to assess the common reed (Phragmitis australis) role in restoring the eutrophic Idku wetland. The lake water and sediments have high N, P, Ca and K contents, which increase the risk of eutrophication. The use of GIS technique reveals that the lake water and sediments exhibit high concentrations of inorganic nutrients in areas nearest to the drain discharge. The remote-sensing technique detects that the common reed covers 1840.5ha (14.6% of the total lake area). The plant shoots produce 31.62tons ha−1 dry biomass with net production of 116377.23tons per lake. The plant can sequester 4.76, 16.69, 261.59, 1168.08, and 903.46tons of P, N, Ca, K, and Mg, respectively. In addition, the shoots contain 10.2% crude protein, 8.3% lipids, and 43.0% carbohydrates, yielding 459.7± 98.0Mcal kg−1 of gross energy. These results sufficiently demonstrate that the common reed shoots can be used as excellent fodder. Common reed shoots can potentially sequester 3.015t of carbon, whereas the rhizomes and roots store 0.838 and 0.216 tons of carbon per lake area. This study concludes that the remote-sensing technique is a good tool for estimating the coverage area of P. australis. Common reed plants offer high potential for treating eutrophication by improving the water and sediment quality through accumulation and translocation of inorganic nutrients in its tissues as excellent fodder. In addition, these plants help reduce global warming owing to their high potential to sequester carbon.https://ejbo.journals.ekb.eg/article_233947_fc09bcae1a48120592c2fbca2c25fe90.pdf